A Molalla man was taken into custody Monday after driving the wrong way on his town’s Independence Day parade route and disobeying orders from police, authorities said.
According to a July 4 Facebook post from the Molalla Police Department, 48-year-old Christopher Eby was charged with reckless driving and endangering, disorderly conduct, and attempting to elude and interfere with a police officer.
MPD said officers received reports of a wrong-way driver that was heading toward the front of the Giant Street Parade, which was being led by Molalla Police Chief Chris Long, around 10 a.m. Monday.
Molalla Police Officer Jamil Kassab responded to the vehicle and ordered the driver to turn around, but he reportedly ignored the directive, according to the post.
Moments later, the driver was stopped and pinned in with the assistance of the Molalla Fire Department, officials said. The driver was later identified as Eby, who was then taken into custody without incident following a brief negotiation.
Police say no one was injured during the incident, and the parade resumed after the scene was cleared.
“Thank you to the citizens and spectators of the parade for remaining calm and safely staying out of harm’s way,” said Molalla PD, who also thanked Molalla Fire, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon City Police, Milwaukie Police and Sandy Police for their assistance.
“Super proud of all involved,” said Molalla Mayor Scott Keyser. “This is a perfect example of the incredible law enforcement and fire personnel our city has.”
